Fire tears through barn in Franklin

Firefighters work to put out a blaze in Franklin.

Firefighters work to put out a blaze in Franklin. JAY HEATH—Courtesy

Firefighters work to put out a blaze in Franklin.

Firefighters work to put out a blaze in Franklin. JAY HEATH—Courtesy

Firefighters work to put out a blaze in Franklin.

Firefighters work to put out a blaze in Franklin. JAY HEATH—Courtesy

Firefighters work to put out a blaze in Franklin.

Firefighters work to put out a blaze in Franklin. JAY HEATH—Courtesy

Monitor staff

Published: 01-16-2025 10:40 AM

A Franklin house was salvaged on Wednesday afternoon after an attached barn caught fire and burned to the ground. 

Franklin firefighters first responded to calls at 916 S. Main St. just after 4:30 p.m. as smoke billowed out of the red barn on the 3.6-acre lot off of Daniel Webster Highway. 

Within minutes of arriving, Franklin fire units called for a first, then second alarm. 

As winds blew the flames closer to the three-bedroom historic home, crews used two hose lines on the connecting frame between the barn and the house to contain the fire. 

Despite significant smoke damage, the fire never entered the main home. No injuries were reported, as well. 

The Franklin Fire Department was assisted on scene by crews from Bristol, Tilton-Northfield, Sanbornton, Belmont, Hill, Boscawen, New Hampton, Laconia, Gilford, Concord and the Lakes Regional Mutual Fire Aid.

“We had a pretty quick and good response from our members and from our mutual aid partners,” said Franklin Deputy Fire Chief David Hall. “The wind certainly affected it, even though it wasn't as high as it has been.”

As crews worked to contain the fire Franklin also received three other calls – two for gas leaks and one motor vehicle accident – that Andover Fire Department, Penacook Rescue Squad and Laconia responded to. 

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The Franklin Fire Department has responded to 84 calls since the start of the year, according to Hall. 

While the cause of the fire remains under investigation and is believed to be accidental according to Hall, ensuring that all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working are basic fire safety measures households can take.